Preparing for the IELTS Reading section can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to tackling the tricky True, False, Not Given questions. Many test-takers lose valuable points here because they confuse “False” with “Not Given” or misinterpret the passage. That’s exactly why you need clear and effective IELTS Reading Strategies 2025 and How to Answer True, False, Not Given Questions?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the latest techniques, practical tips, and proven methods to help you confidently approach this question type in 2025. By the end, you’ll not only understand the difference between these three answer choices but also know how to apply strategies that save time and boost accuracy.
The True, False, Not Given format is designed to test your ability to read carefully, recognize factual accuracy, and distinguish between what information is explicitly stated versus what is implied or not mentioned at all. Many candidates assume this is a guessing game, but in reality, there are systematic steps you can follow to crack these questions. For example, scanning for keywords, identifying paraphrases, and understanding common traps are essential parts of mastering this skill. With the right preparation, you can turn this challenging section into one of your strongest areas.
In 2025, the IELTS exam remains one of the most trusted assessments for international students, professionals, and immigrants aiming to study, work, or relocate abroad. However, the competition for top scores has grown tighter, making smart preparation more important than ever. That’s why having the right IELTS Reading Strategies 2025 and How to Answer True, False, Not Given Questions? is not just helpful, it’s essential for success. Whether you’re aiming for a Band 7, 8, or higher, understanding this question type could be the difference between reaching your goal or falling short.
In this article, we’ll break down the logic behind each answer type, highlight common mistakes test-takers make, and share expert strategies that work in real test conditions. If you’ve ever found yourself second-guessing between “False” and “Not Given,” or if you want a step-by-step method to boost your confidence, keep reading—you’re about to unlock one of the most effective IELTS reading skills for 2025.
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Understanding True, False, Not Given Questions in IELTS Reading
Before applying strategies, it’s important to clearly understand what True, False, Not Given questions are testing. This type of question is designed to check how well you can identify factual accuracy in the passage. The IELTS reading text will give you a statement, and your task is to decide whether the statement matches, contradicts, or is not addressed in the passage.
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True – The statement directly matches the information in the passage. The meaning and facts are the same.
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False – The statement clearly contradicts what the passage says. Even if one detail is different, it is considered False.
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Not Given – The passage does not provide enough information to confirm or deny the statement. This doesn’t mean you should assume it simply means the answer cannot be proven from the text.
The real challenge here is that IELTS often uses paraphrasing instead of repeating exact words. That means you need to recognize synonyms, rephrased sentences, and subtle differences in meaning. For example, if the passage says “The majority of nurses prefer night shifts,” and the statement says “All nurses prefer night shifts,” the correct answer would be False because “all” and “majority” are not the same.
Many test-takers confuse False and Not Given. A good rule is:
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If the passage gives information that directly disagrees with the statement → False.
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If the passage doesn’t mention the information at all → Not Given.
Understanding this distinction is the first step toward applying smart IELTS Reading Strategies 2025 and How to Answer True, False, Not Given Questions? Once you’re clear on these definitions, you can begin learning proven techniques to answer quickly and accurately.
Step-by-Step IELTS Reading Strategies 2025 for Answering True, False, Not Given Questions
Mastering True, False, Not Given questions requires more than just knowing the definitions. You need a clear, repeatable system that helps you avoid traps and answer with confidence.
Below are practical strategies tailored for IELTS Reading Strategies 2025 and How to Answer True, False, Not Given Questions?
1. Read the Questions Before the Passage
Instead of reading the entire passage first, quickly scan the True, False, Not Given statements. This gives you a mental “roadmap” of what information to look for when you read the text.
2. Identify Keywords and Synonyms
Underline or highlight important words in the statement such as numbers, names, dates, or adjectives. Remember, the IELTS rarely uses the exact same words in the passage; instead, it uses synonyms or paraphrases. Recognizing these is crucial.
3. Scan, Don’t Over-Read
When you start reading the passage, scan for keywords or their synonyms rather than reading every line slowly. This saves time and helps you locate the relevant section faster.
4. Match Meaning, Not Just Words
Even if you spot a keyword, don’t rush. Carefully check whether the meaning of the sentence in the passage truly matches the statement. Small differences (like “some” vs. “all” or “increase” vs. “slight increase”) can change the answer.
5. Distinguish Between False and Not Given
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If the passage says the opposite of the statement → False.
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If the passage does not give enough information to prove or disprove the statement → Not Given.
Never assume or use outside knowledge; base your answer strictly on the text.
6. Use the Process of Elimination
If you’re unsure, try ruling out impossible options first. For example, if you can clearly see the passage does not confirm the statement, eliminate “True.” This increases your chances of choosing correctly even if you’re stuck between “False” and “Not Given.”
7. Manage Your Time Wisely
Don’t spend too long on one question. If you can’t decide, mark your best guess and move on—you can come back later if time allows.
By applying these steps consistently, you’ll reduce confusion and increase your accuracy. These strategies are especially effective in 2025’s IELTS exam settings, where passages are more complex and paraphrasing is common.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid in True, False, Not Given Questions
Even with the right IELTS Reading Strategies 2025 and How to Answer True, False, Not Given Questions?, many candidates still lose valuable points because of simple mistakes. Understanding these pitfalls will help you avoid them during the exam.
1. Confusing “False” with “Not Given”
This is the most common mistake. Remember:
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False = The passage directly contradicts the statement.
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Not Given = The passage does not give enough information to decide.
If you can’t find proof either way, it’s Not Given—don’t guess “False” just because the information is missing.
2. Relying on Outside Knowledge
IELTS reading is about what’s in the passage, not what you already know. For example, if the passage says “Water covers 70% of the Earth’s surface,” but you personally know it’s closer to 71%, the correct answer is still True—because that’s what the passage says.
3. Overlooking Keywords Like “All,” “Only,” or “Always”
Extreme words often change the meaning. If the passage says “Some students prefer group study,” but the statement says “All students prefer group study,” the answer is False. Watch out for these absolute terms.
4. Matching Words Instead of Meaning
Just because you see the same word in the passage doesn’t mean the statement is correct. IELTS often uses matching vocabulary to trick careless readers. Always check the context and meaning.
5. Spending Too Much Time on One Question
Some questions are harder than others. If you get stuck, don’t waste five minutes on one statement. Move on and return later if you have time.
6. Ignoring Paraphrases and Synonyms
The exam rarely uses the exact same words as the statement. If you only look for identical vocabulary, you’ll miss the correct section of the passage. For example, “children” in the passage may appear as “young learners” in the statement.
By becoming aware of these common mistakes, you can avoid unnecessary errors and boost your accuracy. The key is to stay calm, think logically, and remember that the answer must always come directly from the passage—never from assumptions.
Practice Examples: How to Apply IELTS Reading Strategies 2025 to True, False, Not Given Questions
Understanding theory is one thing, but applying it under exam conditions is what truly makes the difference.
Below are sample True, False, Not Given questions with explanations that show how to use IELTS Reading Strategies 2025 and How to Answer True, False, Not Given Questions? effectively.
Sample Passage (Excerpt):
“Researchers have found that regular physical exercise not only improves physical health but also has significant benefits for mental well-being. However, while adults are encouraged to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, many still fail to meet this recommendation. Children, on the other hand, are naturally more active but are spending increasing amounts of time on digital devices.”
Question 1:
Adults are advised to exercise for a minimum of 150 minutes weekly.
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Answer: True
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Explanation: The passage clearly states this recommendation. The meaning of the statement matches exactly.
Question 2:
Most children spend less time on digital devices today than in the past.
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Answer: False
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Explanation: The passage says children are spending increasing amounts of time on digital devices. That directly contradicts the statement.
Question 3:
Exercise is more beneficial for physical health than for mental health.
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Answer: Not Given
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Explanation: The passage mentions benefits for both physical and mental health but does not compare which is “more beneficial.” Since no comparison is made, the answer is Not Given.
Step-by-Step Approach Used:
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Identified keywords (“150 minutes,” “children,” “digital devices,” “beneficial”).
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Scanned the passage for matching ideas and paraphrases.
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Matched meaning, not just words.
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Applied the rule: contradiction = False, no evidence = Not Given, exact match = True.
Practicing in this way helps you train your brain to spot subtle differences and avoid falling for IELTS traps. The more you practice with explanations, the more natural and automatic this process will feel during the exam.
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Proven Tips for Faster & Higher Accuracy in 2025
Mastering the basics of True, False, Not Given is essential, but timing and accuracy are what separate an average band score from a top one. With the right approach, you can save time, avoid confusion, and maximize marks.
Here are some expert-level IELTS Reading Strategies 2025 and How to Answer True, False, Not Given Questions? you should adopt:
1. Don’t Overthink – Stick to the Text
The IELTS reading test rewards precision, not creativity. If the information is not in the passage, it’s Not Given—don’t try to guess what the writer might have meant.
2. Watch Out for Extreme Language
Words like always, never, only, all, none, completely are usually red flags. If the passage doesn’t state these extreme claims, the answer will often be False.
3. Answer in Order
Most True, False, Not Given questions follow the sequence of the passage. That means once you locate the answer to Question 1, the next answer will usually appear in the following sentences. This saves time because you won’t need to re-read the entire passage.
4. Use Skimming + Scanning Together
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Skim quickly to get the general idea of each paragraph.
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Scan for keywords or synonyms when answering each question.
This combination prevents you from wasting time reading word-for-word.
5. Train With Timed Practice
During practice sessions, use a timer to simulate test conditions. Aim to complete a passage and its True, False, Not Given questions within 12–15 minutes. This helps build speed and stamina for exam day.
6. Double-Check Absolutes and Numbers
If a statement includes dates, years, percentages, or amounts, check carefully. IELTS often changes one small detail to trick you into choosing the wrong answer.
7. Stay Calm Under Pressure
Many candidates panic when unsure between False and Not Given. In these moments, return to the golden rule:
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Contradiction = False
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No information = Not Given
By applying these tips alongside the strategies and practice examples you’ve learned, you’ll sharpen your ability to answer quickly and accurately—giving you the best chance to achieve your desired IELTS band score in 2025.
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Conclusion: Mastering IELTS Reading Strategies 2025 and How to Answer True, False, Not Given Questions?
The True, False, Not Given question type remains one of the most challenging parts of the IELTS Reading test, but with the right mindset and strategies, it can quickly become a strength instead of a weakness. By understanding the difference between the three answer options, avoiding common mistakes, practicing with real examples, and applying proven time-saving tips, you can approach these questions with confidence and accuracy.
Remember, the IELTS exam is not designed to trick you it is designed to test how carefully you read and how well you can separate fact from assumption. The key to success lies in sticking to what the passage actually says, identifying paraphrases, and resisting the urge to overthink. Every correct answer comes directly from the text, and once you train your eye to see patterns, even complex passages will feel manageable.
As competition for high band scores grows stronger in 2025, mastering IELTS Reading Strategies 2025 and How to Answer True, False, Not Given Questions? can give you a powerful edge. Whether your goal is to study abroad, advance your career, or migrate to a new country, boosting your reading accuracy will bring you one step closer to achieving your dream IELTS score.
Stay consistent with your practice, simulate real exam conditions, and review your mistakes after every session. With dedication and these strategies, you’ll not only save time but also improve your overall reading performance. The difference between Band 6.5 and Band 8 often comes down to mastering tricky question types like this—and now you have the tools to succeed.
Official IELTS Resources
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IELTS Preparation Resources
The official IELTS site offers a rich selection of prep tools—including apps, webinars, practice tests, official books, and articles. A great one-stop source for all your study needs. IELTS -
Cambridge’s Preparation Materials
Cambridge English provides both free sample test questions and paid self-study resources such as The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS and IELTS 19 (Academic/General Training) books. Cambridge English -
Free Online IELTS Reading Practice Tests (British Council)
You can access free full-length Academic or General Training reading tests—ideal for simulating real exam conditions.http://takeielts.britishcouncil.org -
IDP’s IELTS Prepare Hub
IDP offers a comprehensive collection of preparation materials—articles, videos, podcasts, and practice tests—specifically tailored for the reading section.http://IDP IELTS
Official Books & Practice Materials
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The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS
Released in May 2025, this guide is ideal for self-study and includes tips, strategies, and practice tests. Cambridge University Press & Assessment -
Official IELTS Practice Materials Volume 2
Complete with sample tests across all four sections, examiner commentary, and even a DVD with speaking scenarios—perfect for immersive practice.http://takeielts.britishcouncil.orgieltspodcast.com -
Official IELTS Practice Materials (Volume 1 & 2)
Comprehensive packs designed by the IELTS partners, including practice tests and audio/CD content—great for both teachers and learners. http://Amazon+1
FAQs
The best way is to carefully read the statement, identify keywords, scan the passage for synonyms or paraphrases, and match meaning rather than just words. If the statement agrees with the passage → True; if it contradicts → False; if there is no information → Not Given.
Remember this golden rule:
If the passage provides information that is opposite to the statement, the answer is False.
If the passage does not mention the idea at all, the answer is Not Given.
Never use outside knowledge—stick to the text only.
Yes, in most cases they follow the sequence of the passage. This means the answer to Question 1 will usually appear before the answer to Question 2, and so on. This helps you save time by scanning in order instead of re-reading the whole text.
The most common mistake is overthinking or assuming information. IELTS does not test your general knowledge here—it tests your ability to recognize what is stated, contradicted, or missing. Always base your answer strictly on the passage.
Use authentic IELTS practice tests and focus only on this question type first.
Time yourself to build speed (aim for 12–15 minutes per passage).
Review your mistakes carefully to understand whether you confused False with Not Given or missed key paraphrases.
Absolutely. True, False, Not Given makes up a significant portion of the IELTS Reading section. By increasing your accuracy here, you reduce unnecessary errors and push your reading band closer to 7.5, 8, or even 9.
